Discover Cleveland’s Craft Beer Scene
At one point, Cleveland was a major manufacturing center. Its industrial base turned out steel, autos, and beer, including Carling (a Canadian company that moved into a former auto manufacturing plant after Prohibition) and Pilsener Brewing (its product, P.O.C., was informally called “Pride of Cleveland”).
Both heavy industry and brewing waned, but the city – like the state of Ohio – has seen a renaissance of craft brewing, with a multitude of places where you can sample a variety of beers, from light cream ales to sours to heavy stouts. Moreover, Cleveland even offers initiatives like a beer passport with prizes for visiting local breweries. Here are some of the best options to explore in the Cleveland area.
Great Lakes Brewing
Address: 2516 Market Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113, USA
Phone: +1 216-771-4404
Before many others in the Cleveland area were crafting beers, Great Lakes was already shaping the beer scene. Established in 1988, it is renowned for its palate-pleasing brews. As one of the most widely distributed Cleveland-made beers, it can be found in several states. The brewery offers eight main brews year-round and a variety of seasonal beers, notably the popular Christmas Ale. Furthermore, exclusive on-tap offerings can be enjoyed at the brewpub in Ohio City, which features a full menu as well.
Market Garden Brewery
Address: 1947 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113, USA
Phone: +1 216-621-4000
Located near Great Lakes and next to the iconic West Side Market, Market Garden Brewery opened in 2011 and has made a name for itself across Ohio. The restaurant features an extensive menu alongside a production facility of 35,000 square feet, available for tours. Additionally, it serves as an incubator to test new beers before full-scale production.
Forest City Brewery
Address: 2135 Columbus Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113-4229, USA
Phone: +1 216-228-9116
Once just a nondescript building in the city’s Duck Island neighborhood, Forest City Brewery now celebrates Cleveland’s brewing history. Opened in 2014, its offerings include unique beers like Black Betsy, inspired by Shoeless Joe Jackson’s bat, and Grey Eagle, named after former Indians player/manager Tris Speaker. Guests can also enjoy the inviting outdoor patio at this microbrewery.
Fat Head’s
Address: 17450 Engle Lake Dr, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130, USA
Phone: +1 216-898-0242
Originating from Fat Head’s Saloon in Pittsburgh, this brewery began with a vision to create standout beers. Opened in 2009, it pleased patrons with an array of food including wings and enormous sandwiches. In 2018, they expanded into a vast 75,000-square-foot facility, providing a unique brewing experience with a full menu and engaging environment.
Butcher and the Brewer
Address: 2043 E 4th St, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
Phone: +1 216-331-0805
This unique venue blends a brewery and butcher shop, having opened in 2014 on East Fourth Street, which has become a dining hotspot. The industrial chic setting serves a diverse menu and includes a butcher shop next door, perfect for sandwich lovers.
Southern Tier
Address: 811 Prospect Ave E Ste. E, Cleveland, OH 44115, USA
Phone: +1 440-484-4045
As one of the newest players in Cleveland’s beer scene, Southern Tier opened in 2018. The taproom offers a comfortable dining experience on the main floor, with a relaxed lounge atmosphere downstairs. Their seasonal brews showcase inventive flavor profiles, such as dessert-themed stouts and unique ales.
Goldhorn Brewery
Address: 1361 E 55th St, Cleveland, OH 44103-1301, USA
Phone: +1 216-273-7001
Opened in 2016, Goldhorn Brewery is named after a mountain goat from Slovenian folklore, celebrating the community’s heritage. The open, airy tavern features beverages inspired by local history, including Dead Man’s Curve ale and Polka City Pilsner, along with a cozy environment for patrons.
Masthead Brewery
Address: 1261 Superior Ave, Cleveland, OH 44114-3204, USA
Phone: +1 216-206-6176
Strategically located in a former car dealership, Masthead Brewery boasts open spaces and high ceilings, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The brewery serves a delightful menu alongside its craft beers, including a popular coffee stout that many patrons rave about.
Platform Brewing
Address: 4125 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113-3718, USA
Phone: +1 216-202-1386
Platform is one of the fastest-growing breweries in Ohio, with multiple locations, including ones in Columbus and Cincinnati. The Ohio City facility is renowned for its experimental approach, producing unique hard seltzers and beers that often incorporate local ingredients.
Rocky River Brewing Co.
Address: 21290 Center Ridge Rd, Cleveland, OH 44116-3204, USA
Phone: +1 440-895-2739
Founded in 1998, Rocky River Brewing Co. blends seamlessly into its surroundings while offering an upscale casual dining experience. The brewpub features a diverse range of drafts and a menu brimming with options, and they even have a unique beer truck for events.
Avon Brewing Co.
Address: 37040 Detroit Rd, Avon, OH 44011-1702, USA
Phone: +1 440-937-1816
Avon Brewing Company, which opened in 2016, is celebrated for its high-quality beers and award-winning burgers. The brewery is located in a historic 200-year-old building, adding a charming touch to its modern offerings in this rapidly growing suburb.
